Scholars Added To Academy

The latest batch of Everton Academy youngsters have graduated to become full-time players at the Club.

The 14 boys have been registered as Academy members since ages varying between seven and 16 and will now work alongside the first-team at the Blues' Finch Farm training ground.

With the scholars having been in school until recently, they were only able to train outside on weekday evenings or weekends - but it is now their full-time job to play for Everton.

Academy Director Dr Peter Vint, Joint Head of Academy Coaching Sean Lundon, Head of Education and Welfare David Porter and other members of the Finch Farm team led presentations to explain to the youngsters and their parents what is required and expected of them now they have stepped up to their new status.

Below is a quick who’s who guide to Finch Farm’s latest young recruits.

Alex Denny (Midfielder): An engine in the middle of the park, Denny looks up to established players such as Gareth Barry and Yaya Toure. He was part of the Blues’ triumphant Dallas Cup squad earlier in the year.

Jordan Corke (Defender): A strong one-v-one defender, Corke has been at the Academy since the age of seven.